Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye faces renewed uncertainty over his international career after head coach Eric Chelle excluded him from Nigeria's squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.
The Udinese shot-stopper was omitted despite his consistent appearances in Italy's Serie A, according to Punch. His absence follows growing frustration over repeated late arrivals to national team camp, most recently during the September international window.
Okoye was the final player to report to camp in Uyo in September, arriving on the morning of Nigeria's opening qualifier against Madagascar. The delay occurred after he attended Udinese's third-kit presentation at Milan Fashion Week. Although Chelle granted him permission to attend the club function, the manager later voiced displeasure with the timing of his arrival.
Similar punctuality concerns had emerged earlier in June 2024, when the goalkeeper arrived late ahead of World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic. Okoye, who debuted for Nigeria against Brazil in October 2019 and holds 21 senior caps, had previously spent nearly two years away from the team between 2022 and June 2024.
Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba publicly supported the manager's strict stance on Monday Night Football, stressing that punctuality and discipline are vital for anyone representing the country. Broadcaster Olawale Adigun similarly backed Chelle on the Social Plus Podcast, noting that while Okoye boasts the highest club profile among Nigerian goalkeepers, commitment to national duty must come first.
With Okoye sidelined, Chelle has selected Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, and Arthur Okonkwo as his three goalkeeping options.
The Super Eagles host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before flying out for the reverse fixture in Zanzibar on November 17. Nigeria currently sit second in Group L with three points from two matches, having defeated Madagascar 2-1 before falling 3-0 against Guinea-Bissau.
